←back to thread

559 points cxr | 1 comments | | HN request time: 0s | source
Show context
WarOnPrivacy ◴[] No.44476845[source]
I drive a Toyota that is nearly old enough to run for US Senator. Every control in the car is visible, clearly labeled and is distinct to the touch - at all times. The action isn't impeded by routine activity or maintenance (ex:battery change).

Because it can be trivially duplicated, this is minimally capable engineering. Yet automakers everywhere lack even this level of competence. By reasonable measure, they are poor at their job.

replies(13): >>44476881 #>>44476892 #>>44477024 #>>44477518 #>>44477594 #>>44477656 #>>44478016 #>>44478375 #>>44480180 #>>44480505 #>>44481914 #>>44482166 #>>44482519 #
staplers ◴[] No.44476881[source]

  Because it can be trivially duplicated
While I agree with your sentiment, designing and manufacturing custom molds for each knob and function (including premium versions) instead of just slapping a screen on the dash does have a cost.
replies(2): >>44476906 #>>44476911 #
marginalia_nu ◴[] No.44476906[source]
Has this cost risen?

Why is this so expensive it can't even be put into a premium car today when it used to be ubiquitous in even the cheapest hardware a few decades ago?

replies(5): >>44477023 #>>44477054 #>>44477163 #>>44477252 #>>44477721 #
1. criddell ◴[] No.44477163[source]
Because cars have long design times and a big touchscreen have generally been seen as more premium than a bunch of push buttons and dials. I think the tide has turned somewhat, but it’s going to take some time.